P&B Labs Anavar 200 tabs (5 mg/tab)

Oxandrolone – Anavar

Anavar is a well-known, mild anabolic steroid favored by athletes and bodybuilders for its effectiveness in promoting weight gain.

Its popularity stems from its unique property of not converting to estrogen, minimizing the risk of gynecomastia and water retention. Originally launched almost 50 years ago, Anavar was primarily used to address various infertility disorders and muscle wasting in hospital patients. Today, however, it is rarely employed in clinical settings. Anavar boasts two significant advantages over many anabolic steroids: it doesn’t convert to estrogen and has minimal impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis at lower doses. This characteristic reduces the likelihood of common side effects such as loss of libido and testicular atrophy, often associated with other steroids.

Pharmacology

Oxandrolone, or Oxandrin, functions both as an anabolic steroid and as an androgenic agent. At low dosages, it exhibits selective anabolic effects, while higher doses may elicit potent androgenic responses. Excessively high doses can lead to hypothalamic suppression, affecting testosterone production. Like similar steroids, Oxandrolone raises levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and decreases “good” HDL cholesterol, with minimal estrogen conversion at lower doses.

Indications

Although seldom used today in clinical medicine, Oxandrolone was historically prescribed for anemia, weight issues in HIV patients, and osteoporosis. Production ceased in 1989 due to abuse, but Savient Pharmaceuticals now manufactures it under the trade name Oxandrin. Presently, it is occasionally prescribed to help critically ill patients regain weight post-trauma, burns, or severe infections, often in conjunction with corticosteroids for managing cancer-related bone pain.

Dosage

For treating anemia or aiding weight gain, the recommended adult dosage is typically between 2.5-20 mg/day, divided into 2-4 doses. Individual responses may vary, with some requiring up to 30-150 mg/day. Treatment usually lasts 3-6 weeks, with gradual dose increases if no improvement is noted within the initial four weeks. Oxandrolone is available in tablet form (2.5 mg or 10 mg).

As with any anabolic steroid, Oxandrolone may lead to side effects. At low doses, these effects are generally minor, including nausea or mild abdominal discomfort. Higher doses can lead to:

• jaundice
• rare hepatic necrosis
• liver cancer
• general malaise
• testicular atrophy
• hair loss
• breast enlargement
• abdominal cramps, nausea, bloating
• acne, oily skin
• diarrhea
• menstrual irregularities

The majority of these side effects are reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.

Contraindications

Oxandrolone should be avoided in patients with:

• suspected prostate cancer
• breast cancer (male or female)
• pregnancy
• evidence of hypercalcemia
• allergies to anabolic steroids

Bodybuilders

Bodybuilders frequently use Anavar due to its effective absorption and minimal side effects at low doses. Men typically consume one tablet twice daily, while women take one tablet daily. Many bodybuilders start at a lower dose, often combining Anavar with other steroids, such as dianabol, winstrol, or anadriol, over a treatment duration of 4-8 weeks. Experts usually recommend starting with 5 mg daily, progressively increasing over 2-3 weeks.

Women particularly favor Anavar due to minimal virilization effects at lower doses. However, doses exceeding 5 mg daily or treatment durations longer than 6 weeks may result in virilization signs. Weight gain associated with Anavar tends to be gradual, often noticeable after 3-4 weeks. Signs of virilization to monitor include:

• deep voice
• reduced libido
• clitoral enlargement
• acne
• excessive hair growth

If virilization symptoms occur, discontinuation of the drug is imperative; while acne and hair growth issues may resolve, other symptoms may not.

Warnings

All anabolic steroids have potential liver toxicity and can cause jaundice. Instances of liver dysfunction and tumors have been reported. Liver cancer remains the most severe complication associated with steroids, warranting routine liver enzyme tests and possibly annual ultrasounds for monitoring.

Overdose

While overdosing on anabolic steroids is unlikely, excessive consumption of Anavar is still not advisable. Acute effects may not be life-threatening, but discomfort is likely. Seeking emergency medical attention is strongly recommended if overdose occurs, with supportive treatment being the standard approach for all steroid overdoses.

Costs

Pricing for Anavar (100 tablets of 2.5 mg each) typically ranges from $100 to $150. Due to high demand, counterfeit formulas are prevalent; thus, sourcing from reputable dealers is crucial. While some bodybuilders obtain supplies from Mexico, quality and purity are not guaranteed. Authentic Anavar from pharmacies can cost between $700 and $1200 for 100 tablets.

Levels

Urine tests can easily detect Anavar and its metabolites, with the detection window lasting from 7 to 14 days post-last dose across major sports organizations.

Legal

As a controlled substance in the USA, the sale and distribution of Anavar are prohibited. The DEA actively oversees its sale in pharmacies and online. Personal possession is also illegal, given Anavar’s lack of clinical approval in the USA.